Liaisons as Teacher Leaders

Communicating Effectively: The Liaison will find this especially important when working with building level administrators, Instructional Coaches, veteran educators, New Educators and district leaders.

Documenting Induction Processes: The Liaison in collaboration with administrators, Instructional Coaches, and support staff, develops a written plan for orienting and supporting Instructional Coaches, New Educators, and assessing the impact of those support systems.

Coaching of Coaches: The Liaison’s main responsibility is to coach the Instructional Coaches. This responsibility is accomplished by training and mentoring Instructional Coaches as they support the New Educator.

Being Informed on the Latest Educational Issues: The Liaison encourages Instructional Coaches to support new educators as they apply instructional strategies that have proven effective in increasing student achievement.

Maintaining Good Records: The Liaison models and encourages Instructional Coaches to keep detailed records on the support provided to their clients. The data from these records can be used in developing the site’s induction plan and identifying possible areas for Instructional Coaches’ and New Educators’ professional development.

Using High Yield Instructional Strategies: The Liaison encourages Instructional Coaches and the support staff to model and assist their New Educators in using instructional strategies that are research based and have a proven impact on student learning.

Expecting High Levels of Achievements: 
The Liaison sets a high standard for herself/himself and the Instructional Coaches. Coaches communicate these expectations to the New Educators.

Being Enthusiastic about the Teaching Profession: The Liaison is both realistic and idealistic about the teaching profession. S/he is an advocate and supporter of educational careers.

Striving to be a Positive Role Model: The Liaison provides all Instructional Coaches with an example of good character and outstanding professional qualities.

Encouraging the Best and Brightest Teachers to Become Instructional Coaches: The Liaison is constantly being on the look out for teachers who demonstrate high energy and are successful in the classroom to support future New Educators.

Source: Dr. Doug Miller, NESS Program Facilitator